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Over the years, I have witnessed how crucial life is. Money has never been this important to me. All this time, I thought everything will be as fine as they used to be. But life is full of surprises. You can never tell what will happen in the next few minutes. Need Help? Over the past years, most of us have experienced economic hardships. And, hey, it’s serious. None of us is exempted from crisis. I have seen families who are sleeping on filthy alleys, elderly who need medication and hospital assistance, and children who cannot go to school because their families lack the necessary resources. Indeed, these are heartbreaking scenes and, surely, few of us will extend help if we can. It was one of those moments that I thought about grants. Well, I’m not used to reading articles that talk about such opportunities. I used to think of the tedious process I have to deal with in writing and submitting proposals to foundations for their open opportunities. Thus, if that is the most I can do to help others or even myself, why not do it? In fact, according to a research of the National Center for Education Statistics, 66% of all undergraduates received financial aid for the year 2007 to 2008 with an average amount of $9,100.00 each. The number goes to show how funding assistance was able to change the lives of disadvantaged people. How to win a funder? With a huge number of people who needs assistance, it is a challenge to find appropriate funding opportunities that will fit your needs. Thus, here is a list of what to do when writing a proposal that will win the hearts of funders. 1. Identify your needs - The foremost step in writing a proposal is to have an idea of what you or your organization needs. It is important to discuss how funding opportunities will help you achieve your goals. This can mean financial or medical assistance, scholarships, general operating support, etc. Whatever the needs may be, ensure that they meet the prospective funder’s requirements. 2. Prepare needed information - After identifying your needs, the next important step is to have a thorough understanding of your project. As an applicant, it is imperative to discuss its importance in changing the lives of people who will benefit from it. 3. Be realistic - Grants are funds which are given for a worthy cause. Its aim is to provide assistance to people who don’t have enough resources for worthwhile projects. Funders evaluate each request to give everyone equal opportunity. In writing your application, it is important to provide a realistic project timeline. This will help potential funders further understand what you want to achieve. For the budget, don’t ask for an amount that is too little or too much. Whether you like it or not, potential funders will know. 4. Write like a pro - Writing is a tedious task. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t be a good one. Before submitting a grant request, ensure that it is written clearly and concisely. This would mean giving accurate and related information. Also, it is important to read special instructions from funders because they may require character, word, or page limitations or specific details that must be included in your document. 5. Check your proposal - Submitting a proposal may bring you much excitement. Thus, ensure that you have read your document carefully and that potential funders will understand what you wish to imply. 6. Beat the deadline – Note the deadline for submission. Applying on or before its deadline signifies that you adhere to the funder’s application rules. It is important to be on time because late applications may no longer be accepted.
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